I'm looking to get a flintlock kit, but I need some input. The main kits I'm looking at are Jim chambers PA fowler or his new england fowler. But I'm open to other options. I've never shot a flintlock or fowler, but I am competant with sidelocks and modern shotguns. I'm looking for an all purpose fowler, with the focus being good handling. Clays, dove, ducks, maybe even some roundballs for bigger game, and shot for small game. I do hunt a lot of ducks, I use decoys, so I usually get them within 35 yds or closer.
For waterfowl...Do you have to stick to fancy non-toxic for flintlocks?(itx or bismuth) Or can you use steel shot? If so can you use steel shot in a jug choked barrel? ( my guess is no!)
I really like the lines and the weight of the PA fowler, but don't know how she'll handle (46" barrel, 6-3/4 lbs). Its is only a 20 ga. But I have no issues hunting with modern 20's with 7/8s oz of steel...so would a man with a jug choked 20 ga with a LM, Mod, or IM choke using an ounce of itx be able to throw a decent and even pattern out to 35-40 yards?
What about the New england fowler in 10 or 12 ga? At 8 lbs with a 46" barrel, it sounds like it may be a bear to get on and stay with fast moving ducks. But I imagine the patterns are much fuller with 1-1/4 or 1-1/2 oz of shot. However with itx or bismuth that amount of shot seems like overkill.
Do you guys have any input on wingshooting with a 46" barrel?